Nature's Newbies -- Registration Now Open!

Each Nature's Newbies class will engage you and your child in free-choice play activities, a story, song, and more! Programs will also feature a positive and engaging interaction with one of the Zoo's animal ambassadors to allow for an up-close encounter during each class.

Programs are open to children ages 1-3 plus one adult (parent/guardian). Programs are 45-minutes long and take place at the PepsiCo Foundation Education Campus located at the south end of the Zoo's main parking lot. You do not need to enter the Zoo in order to enter the education campus.

***To provide the best possible experience for all participants, only those registered may attend the program (each registered child includes one adult).Due to space limitations, we will not be able to accommodate strollers inside of the classroom or additional children/adults as there is limited space in the room. Strollers may be parked outside of the room if needed. If at any time the designated adult is unable to attend a program, another adult may attend in his/her place.
Registration for all programs will be processed online on a first-come, first-served basis. We do not take registrations over the telephone. Class size is limited to the first 12 children who apply.

Deadline for registration each week is 8 a.m. the Wednesday before scheduled classes.

AuthorizationsBy enrolling in our programming, you authorize any emergency medical treatment and allow the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens to use your and/or your childs image for promotional and news purposes.

Waiting ListsDue to the overwhelming popularity of our Early Childhood programs, we do keep waiting lists when classes fill. If a desired program is not visible on the registration site, please assume that the date is filled to capacity. To be added to the wait list of an Early Childhood program, contact the Education department directly by email or call 904-757-4463, ext. 388.

Date Changes / Cancellations / RefundsDue to the high demand for our Early Childhood programs, date changes are not allowed. Cancellations must be received in writing by email or fax. No refunds will be issued for cancellations within two weeks of the program date. No refunds will be issued for missed classes.For more information, email education@jacksonvillezoo.orgor call 904-757-4463, ext. 388.